Effect of Cultism on Academic Activities Among Students of Higher Institutions in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State,nigeria.

ABSTRACT
Cultism remains a pervasive challenge in tertiary institutions, undermining academic performance and the overall quality of education. This study examines the effects of cultism on academic performance among students in tertiary institutions, focusing on its causes,manifestations, and consequences. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through surveys, interviews, and secondary sources from students, faculty members, and stakeholders across selected institutions in Southwest Nigeria. The findings reveal that cultism significantly impacts academic performance, leading to poor attendance, reduced academic focus, psychological distress, and high dropout rates. Key drivers of cultism include peer pressure, socio-economic challenges, institutional lapses, and inadequate enforcement of anti-cult laws.
The study recommends a multi-faceted approach to combating cultism, including enhanced campus security, robust anti-cult policies, student counseling services, and community engagement. It emphasizes the need for collaboration among students, educators,policymakers, and law enforcement to address the menace effectively. By fostering a secure and supportive academic environment, institutions can mitigate the impact of cultism and promote academic excellence. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on cultism aand offers practical strategies for tackling its adverse effects on education.Keyword:Effect;Cultism,Academic Performance;Students;Tertiary Institutions;